Veal Chops with Fresh-Tomato Sauce Recipe

Craving a hearty, flavorsome dish to satisfy your taste buds? This veal chops with fresh tomato sauce recipe is a delightful combination of succulent veal chops marinated in a luscious blend of red wine and spices, then crowned with a vibrant and tangy fresh tomato sauce. This dish brings together a medley of flavors that makes it an impressive main course for any occasion.

Photos of Veal Chops with Fresh-Tomato Sauce Recipe

The recipe calls for veal loin chops, which are not commonly seen in every supermarket. When buying these chops, look for ones with a good amount of marbling, as this will ensure they're tender and flavorful when cooked. Vine-ripened tomatoes are another key ingredient in this recipe. They are picked at their peak of freshness and have a sweet, full flavor that is wonderful in the tomato sauce. If you can't find vine-ripened tomatoes, choose the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find.

Ingredients for Veal Chops with Fresh Tomato Sauce

Olive oil: A key ingredient for the marinade and tomato sauce. It adds a rich, fruity flavor that enhances the other ingredients.

Red wine: Used in the marinade to tenderize the veal and give it a deep, robust flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavor of the meat and the tomato sauce.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat to the veal and the tomato sauce.

Garlic: Infuses the marinade with a savoury depth of flavor.

Veal loin chops: The star of the dish. When grilled, these become incredibly tender and flavorful.

Vine-ripened tomatoes: The base of the fresh tomato sauce. They bring a lovely sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory veal.

Mixed fresh herbs: They add a pop of fresh flavor to the tomato sauce.

Balsamic vinegar: Adds a touch of tanginess to the tomato sauce.

One reader, Janel Fortin says:

The veal chops with fresh tomato sauce recipe is a game-changer! The succulent veal paired with the vibrant and zesty tomato sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. The flavors are simply divine, and the dish is a true crowd-pleaser. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a gourmet dining experience.

Janel Fortin

Cooking Techniques for Veal Chops With Fresh Tomato Sauce

How to marinate the veal chops: Combine 4 tablespoons of oil with wine, salt, pepper, and garlic in a shallow dish. Add the veal chops and turn to coat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the flavors.

How to prepare the fresh tomato sauce: In a medium glass or stainless-steel bowl, combine the tomatoes with oil, herbs, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure the flavors are well combined and allow the sauce to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.

How to grill the veal chops: Grill the marinated veal chops over high heat or broil them for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until just done. Ensure to monitor the cooking time to prevent overcooking and maintain the juiciness of the meat.

How to serve: Place the grilled veal chops on a serving platter and top them with the prepared fresh tomato sauce. Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best.

How To Make Veal Chops with Fresh-Tomato Sauce

These grilled wine-pepper-garlic-marinated veal chops are topped with a contrast of fresh, tangy tomato sauce made with ripe tomatoes and vinegar!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

5½tbspolive oil
¼cupred wine
¾tspsalt
fresh ground black pepper
2clovesgarlic
4veal loin chops
1¼lbsvine-ripened tomatoes,(about for 4 tomatoes)
1½tbspmixed fresh herbs,chopped
½tspbalsamic vinegar

Instructions

Light the grill or heat the broiler.
In a shallow dish, combine 4 tablespoons of oil with wine, ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and garlic.
Add the veal chops and turn to coat.
In a medium glass or stainless-steel bowl, combine the tomatoes with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt, the remaining 1½ tablespoons of oil, the herbs, vinegar, and a large pinch of pepper.
Grill the chops over high heat or broil them for 4 to 5 minutes.
Turn and cook for 4 to 5 minutes longer until just done.
Serve the veal chops topped with the tomato sauce.

Recipe Notes

If in a rush or tomatoes are out of season, skip the tomato sauce. The chops are perfectly fine on their own.

Nutrition

Calories: 428.98kcal
Fat: 31.48g
Saturated Fat: 7.13g
Trans Fat: 0.52g
Monounsaturated Fat: 19.61g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.59g
Carbohydrates: 7.27g
Fiber: 2.01g
Sugar: 3.95g
Protein: 26.58g
Cholesterol: 73.75mg
Sodium: 567.96mg
Calcium: 42.22mg
Potassium: 682.94mg
Iron: 1.82mg
Vitamin A: 65.78µg
Vitamin C: 21.78mg

Pro Tip for Cooking Veal Chops With Fresh Tomato Sauce

When grilling veal chops, it's important to avoid overcooking as veal can easily become tough and lose its tender texture. To ensure perfect doneness, use a meat thermometer and aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the meat rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chop, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Veal Chops With Tomato Sauce

Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the veal chops the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a food processor to quickly chop the tomatoes and herbs for the fresh tomato sauce.

Multitask: While the veal chops are grilling, use that time to prepare the fresh tomato sauce to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Organize ingredients: Lay out all the ingredients and kitchen tools needed for the recipe before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Quick sear: Opt for a quick sear on the veal chops to lock in the juices and flavor without spending too much time on the grill.

Substitute Ingredients For Veal Chops with Fresh-Tomato Sauce Recipe

veal loin chops - Substitute with pork loin chops: Pork loin chops can be used as a substitute for veal chops due to their similar tenderness and mild flavor.
vine-ripened tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomatoes: Canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute for vine-ripened tomatoes, providing a similar texture and flavor to the dish.

Plating Ideas for Veal Chops With Tomato Sauce

Elevate the veal chops: Carefully arrange the grilled veal chops on the plate, ensuring they are positioned in an appealing manner.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped herbs over the veal chops to add a pop of color and enhance the overall presentation.
Create a vibrant tomato sauce bed: Spoon the fresh tomato sauce onto the plate, creating a vibrant and visually appealing bed for the veal chops to rest on.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Artfully drizzle a small amount of balsamic vinegar around the edge of the plate to add a touch of elegance and flavor complexity.
Add a touch of elegance with microgreens: Place a small cluster of delicate microgreens on top of the veal chops to add a sophisticated and refined touch to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of negative space on the plate, allowing the vibrant colors of the veal chops and tomato sauce to stand out and captivate the eye.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Veal Chops

Grill or broiler: You can use either a grill or a broiler to cook the veal chops. The grill will impart a smoky flavor, while the broiler will cook the chops using direct heat.
Shallow dish: This is used to marinate the veal chops in the oil, wine, salt, pepper, and garlic mixture, ensuring that the flavors infuse into the meat.
Medium glass or stainless-steel bowl: This is used to mix the tomatoes with the oil, herbs, vinegar, and pepper to create the fresh tomato sauce.

Storing and Freezing Veal Chops With Tomato Sauce

Let the veal chops cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
The fresh tomato sauce can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It's best to store the sauce and chops separately to prevent the chops from getting soggy.
To freeze the veal chops, wrap each chop individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Place the wrapped chops in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
The tomato sauce can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label with the date and freeze.
To reheat the frozen veal chops, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the chops in a baking dish, and cover with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
To reheat the frozen tomato sauce, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and simmering. Adjust the seasoning if needed before serving with the reheated veal chops.

How To Reheat Leftover Veal Chops With Tomato Sauce

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover veal chops on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Brush the chops with a little olive oil to prevent them from drying out. Cover the baking sheet with another piece of foil to create a tight seal. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chops are heated through.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place the veal chops on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help maintain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chops are heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the meat to become tough.
To reheat the fresh tomato sauce, place it in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally until the sauce is heated through. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or red wine to thin it out. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
If you have time, you can also reheat the veal chops and tomato sauce together in a skillet. Place the chops in the skillet and pour the sauce over them. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until everything is heated through. This method allows the flavors to meld together and can result in an even tastier dish.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat the veal chops under the broiler. Preheat your broiler and place the chops on a broiler pan. Brush with a little olive oil and broil for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside. Serve with the reheated tomato sauce.

Interesting Trivia About Veal Chops With Tomato Sauce

The veal chops with fresh tomato sauce recipe is a delicious and nutritious dish that is rich in protein and essential vitamins. Veal is a lean meat that provides a good source of iron and zinc, while fresh tomatoes are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. This dish is a perfect choice for a healthy and flavorful meal. Enjoy!

Is Making Veal Chops at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this veal chops with fresh tomato sauce recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Veal loin chops can be relatively expensive, but the dish is elevated by the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients such as vine-ripened tomatoes, mixed fresh herbs, and olive oil. The red wine and balsamic vinegar add depth of flavor, but may not be a regular pantry item for some households. Overall, this recipe may be considered a special treat rather than a cost-effective option for a household. I would rate this recipe a 7 for its flavor and presentation. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $40-$50.

Is This Veal Chop Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This veal chop recipe, while flavorful, has some aspects that could be improved from a health perspective:

The recipe relies heavily on olive oil, which is high in calories and fat. While olive oil contains healthy monounsaturated fats, using too much can lead to excess calorie intake.
Red wine is used in the marinade, and while moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, it adds extra calories to the dish.
Veal itself is a red meat, which should be consumed in moderation due to its saturated fat content.
The recipe lacks a significant source of fiber, as it doesn't include any whole grains or vegetables apart from the tomato sauce.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the marinade and tomato sauce, or replace some of it with a lower-calorie alternative like chicken or vegetable broth.
Use a leaner cut of veal or substitute the veal with a leaner protein source, such as chicken breast or pork tenderloin.
Increase the vegetable content by adding more tomatoes to the sauce or serving the veal chops with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
Incorporate whole grains by serving the veal chops with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or whole-grain pasta to boost the fiber content of the meal.
Use fresh herbs generously, as they add flavor without increasing calorie content. You can also experiment with additional spices like red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to enhance the taste while keeping the dish healthy.

Editor's Opinion on This Veal Chop Recipe

The veal chops with fresh tomato sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The marinade infuses the veal with a rich, savory taste, while the fresh tomato sauce adds a burst of brightness and acidity. The grilling method ensures a perfect sear on the veal, locking in the juices and creating a beautiful charred exterior. The use of vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh herbs elevates the dish, providing a vibrant and aromatic accompaniment to the tender veal chops. This recipe is a wonderful choice for a special dinner, showcasing the elegance of veal and the simplicity of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Enhance Your Veal Chops with Fresh-Tomato Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a zesty sprinkle of lemon zest, a refreshing and light side dish for the veal chops

Wild Mushroom Risotto: Indulgent and creamy risotto with a variety of wild mushrooms, a luxurious accompaniment to the succulent veal chops

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Honey Balsamic Glazed Salmon: Coat salmon fillets in a sweet and tangy honey balsamic glaze before baking for a simple yet elegant seafood dish that's perfect for any occasion.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Veal Chops With Tomato Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy filling, making it a crowd-pleasing starter for any meal.

Bruschetta: Serve up a classic Italian appetizer by topping crispy slices of toasted bread with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant herbs creates a refreshing and light dish that is sure to whet the appetite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a vibrant and fresh strawberry compote for a delightful and satisfying treat.

Why trust this Veal Chops with Fresh-Tomato Sauce Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable dining experience with its use of premium ingredients. The succulent veal chops are marinated in a flavorful blend of olive oil, red wine, and garlic, ensuring a tender and rich taste. The accompanying fresh tomato sauce features ripe vine-ripened tomatoes combined with a medley of fresh herbs and a hint of balsamic vinegar, adding a burst of vibrant flavors. Trust in the quality of these ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for a memorable and satisfying meal.

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FAQ:

What type of wine is best to use in this recipe?

I recommend using a dry red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon for this recipe. The wine adds depth of flavor to the veal chops and complements the fresh tomato sauce beautifully.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of veal?

Yes, you can substitute the veal chops with other meats such as pork chops or chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.

Can I prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

What herbs work best in the tomato sauce?

I recommend using a combination of fresh basil, oregano, and thyme for the tomato sauce. These herbs add a wonderful aromatic quality and fresh flavor to the sauce.

How do I know when the veal chops are done cooking?

The veal chops are done cooking when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. You can also check for doneness by making a small cut to ensure the juices run clear.